'Silverware will definitely be the icing on the cake'

FOOTBALL: Being in contention for silverware is a by-product of the changing culture at Melbourne City, says marquee player Tim Cahill.

The club will attempt to win its first trophy since its formation in 2009 when it takes on Sydney FC in the FFA Cup final tonight at AAMI Park.

Cahill said the FFA Cup was "definitely something that was on the menu at the start of the season”.

"To be in this position is excellent and it's now about executing,” he told SEN radio.

The Socceroos great, however, added: "I think the whole persona of demanding success and trophies is one thing, but one of the biggest things about our football club this year is changing the culture and also creating a different atmosphere for the fans.

"You can see, already, the style of football that we play week in week out that we're progressing.

"Silverware will definitely be the icing on the cake but improvement of the football club is first and foremost.”

"Brandan's unbelievable, I think his attitude and persona is something this club has needed,” Cahill said.

"Unless you pull him out, he won't stop playing. The style of the way he plays is very passionate, it reflects the way the club is.

"He's really becoming a crowd favourite purely because he wears his heart and soul on his sleeve and he brings that to every game.”

Executives from parent organisation City Football Group are in Melbourne to watch the match, with the hosts taking on the A-League-leading Sky Blues and their host of stars including Bobo and Alex Brosque.

"Attacking-wise they're fantastic; defensively, very strong; midfield, strong as well,” Cahill said. "At the moment they're the team to beat. We're looking forward to the occasion, but it's an occasion the boys are ready for.”